Araucaria araucana - Monkey Puzzle

The Monkey Puzzle, scientifically known as Araucaria araucana or A. imbricata, is a coniferous tree easily recognised by its impressive branches covered in shiny green scales. Despite its name, there are no monkeys in its native Andean forests. This tree prefers mild and humid climates, especially those humid in the summer and can tolerate different soil types. However, it can only withstand temperatures as low as -12°C. If you decide to plant this unique tree, make sure you have enough space as it can grow up to 20 metres (65 feet) tall and 8 to 9 metres (29 feet 6 inches) wide.

The Araucaria araucana, also known as the Chilean Pine, is a member of the Araucariaceae family. It is native to Chile and Argentina, specifically the watered slopes of the Andes up to 1700m (5577 ft) and the Nahuelbuta Range. It is considered the symbolic tree of Chile. In its natural environment, this tree can grow to a height of more than 25m (82 ft) with a trunk diameter of over 1m (3 ft 4 in). Although it has slow growth, it has impressive longevity, with some trees living over a 1,000 years. In our climate, it usually grows to a height of 15m (49 ft 2 in) and a width of 8m (26 ft 2 in). Its habit begins as a dome supported by interlaced branches, but as it grows, it takes on the shape of a large parasol carried by a very long stem.

The Araucaria imbricata tree has a straight trunk covered in thick, resinous bark that can be greyish or reddish, with a polygonal pattern created by old branch scars. The branches are arranged in horizontal spirals and are covered with small, flattened leaves that are pointed and sharp at their tips. The leaves are closely packed together, measuring 3 to 5cm (1.2 to 2 in) in length and 0.8 to 25cm (0.3 to 9.8 in) in width. This species usually produces either male or female cones, but some trees can have male and female cones. The cones form in the upper part of the crown of 30 to 40-year-old trees. Male cones are elongated, light brown when ripe, and 7 to 15cm (2.8 to 5.9 in) long. They are gathered in small groups at the end of the branches. Female cones are usually on their own or grouped in pairs, which can be the size of a melon. They give rise to large, edible seeds called pine nuts, which are highly valued on their own and in cooking.

In the 19th century, the Araucaria gained immense popularity in the United Kingdom and intrigued enthusiasts of exotic plants due to its eccentric appearance. Although the small plant in its pot may entice you with its picturesque look, it is important to consider its significant growth that will transform it into a giant in a few decades. Therefore, it is advisable to plant it at a distance from your house, where you can observe and admire it even on grey winter days. Planting this large conifer in a spacious garden, where its unique structure can stand out among other evergreen or deciduous trees, is best.